Our Kelso racing tips cover all 8 races on the card today, Monday 20th April 2026. The action gets underway at 14:00 and runs through to 17:35, with going reported as 6.7) (selective watering) (Good, good to soft in places (goingstick).
A few names jump off the page from a course-form perspective. Walk On Quest boasts a 50% strike rate from 4 runs at the track, James Bowen has been in fine form here with 5 wins from 14 rides, Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero’s yard sends out runners with a 28.13% strike rate at this venue. Below you’ll find race-by-race breakdowns with our top selections, live odds and tipster picks.
Tipster Performance at Kelso
Here’s how the leading tipsters have fared at Kelso over the last two years (minimum 10 selections):
| Tipster | Source | Selections | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RP Ratings | Racing Post | 10 | 3 | 30% | 70% |
| Glendale | The Scotsman | 17 | 5 | 29.41% | 52.94% |
| The Score | Racing TV | 11 | 3 | 27.27% | 81.82% |
| Garry Owen | Daily Record | 17 | 4 | 23.53% | 64.71% |
| The Punt | Racing Post | 10 | 2 | 20% | 50% |
14:00 – Adam Scott Celebratory Novices’ Hurdle (GBB Race)
Race Details: 2m 2f | Class 4 | Going: 6.7) (selective watering) (Good, good to soft in places (goingstick) | | jumps
This doesn’t look a deep novice by any means, but it is still an interesting little tactical affair. Smoke Trail sets the standard on a mark of 119 and, on bare figures, he’s the one they all have to beat if reproducing the level of his first three hurdle runs. Changemyluck is the obvious danger after back-to-back seconds and gets weight from the favourite, which matters around Kelso over this trip. Behind them, it gets much murkier. Nobotheratall has at least shown he can win a race, while Herja has bits of form that make her competitive if bouncing back. Several others need a fair bit more than they’ve shown, so this looks like a race likely decided by class and professionalism rather than hidden depth.
Top Selections
1. Smoke Trail – 5/4 with Bet365
Jockey: Derek Fox | Trainer: Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore | Form: 1334 | Rating: 119 | Topspeed: 105
Smoke Trail is the solid one here and, while 5/4 is hardly stealing money, he still makes plenty of appeal in a race lacking depth. His mark of 119 is the best in the field, his Topspeed figure of 105 is comfortably the strongest on offer, and that recent fourth doesn’t put me off in the slightest given the overall consistency of his profile. He’s been keeping better company than most of these and this looks a very fair Class 4 opportunity. Derek Fox is an excellent booking around here and, if Smoke Trail settles and jumps cleanly, he should simply prove too strong late on. Bet: WIN
2. Changemyluck – 3/1 with Bet365
Jockey: James Bowen | Trainer: Stuart Coltherd | Form: 888322 | Rating: 118 | Topspeed: 72
Changemyluck is the each-way angle because he’s coming here in better nick than plenty of these and his recent pair of runner-up efforts suggest a first hurdle win isn’t far away. He gets in with only 152, which is a notable pull at the weights against the favourite, and James Bowen is exactly the sort you want on a horse who may need delivering at the right time. The form figures aren’t flashy at first glance, but they tell the story of a horse improving with racing after a quiet start. At 3/1 he’s not massive, but in a 10-runner race with three places he still makes sense as the percentage play. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Smoke Trail is the straight win bet because he brings the best form, the best rating and the strongest speed figure into a race that shouldn’t take much winning. Changemyluck is the sensible each-way punt with his low weight and recent consistency giving him solid place claims. If you want one to fear beyond the pair, Nobotheratall is the obvious danger if forgiven that latest flop.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smoke Trail | 5/4 | 5/4 | 5/4 | 5/4 | 6/5 | 5/4 (Bet365) |
| Bogha Baiste | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Herja | 7/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 (Bet365) |
| Melbourne Ghost | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
| Nobotheratall | 9/2 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| The Grey Venture | 40/1 | 30/1 | 30/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Thorneylands | 9/1 | 17/2 | 9/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Changemyluck | 3/1 | 85/40 | 85/40 | 2/1 | 5/2 | 3/1 (Bet365) |
| Hashtag Queen | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 (Bet365) |
14:30 – Malcolm “Scarra” Scott Memorial Handicap Hurdle
Race Details: 2m 6f | Class 4 | Going: 6.7) (selective watering) (Good, good to soft in places (goingstick) | | jumps
This is a proper Kelso handicap hurdle rather than a race full of lurkers, and the market has latched onto the obvious recent form. Jehol De Thaix arrives off a win and is easy to see near the head of affairs again, while Jericoacoara and Rauzan both come here after solid placed efforts and look the main dangers. Kilmore Rock is the awkward one to assess because his profile is messy, but his figures still give him a squeak if backing up his latest third. Menaggio has threatened to get involved a couple of times without quite delivering, and Nosy Neighbour is lightly raced enough to think there may be more to come. It is competitive without being deep, and I would trust current wellbeing over raw ability.
Top Selections
1. Jehol De Thaix – 7/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Danny McMenamin | Trainer: Nicky Richards | Form: 54-621 | Rating: 118 | Topspeed: 101
He looks the percentage call. Nicky Richards’ 7-year-old has been edging towards a win for a little while and finally got his head in front last time, the sort of performance that suggested this mark may not have him cornered just yet. A rating of 118 puts him right in the mix and, crucially, he comes here in cleaner form than plenty of these. Danny McMenamin is an asset around here and this trip looks within range given how he has been finishing his races. At 7/2 he is not wildly generous, but he is still the one with the most solid claims in a race where a few rivals come with caveats. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Jericoacoara – 11/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Joshua Thompson | Trainer: Micky Hammond | Form: 0-0532 | Rating: 117 | Topspeed: 106
He makes plenty of each-way appeal in a race of this shape. The latest second was a step in the right direction and his overall profile says he is capable of winning off 117 when things fall right. What I like is that his Topspeed figure of 106 stacks up very well at this level, so there is substance behind the recent promise rather than just a flattering placing. Micky Hammond’s runner has been knocking on the door without quite barging through it, but 11/2 is fair enough in an 11-runner handicap with three places on offer. He is the sort who can travel into it and give you a decent run for your money. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Jehol De Thaix is the straight win play because he brings the most convincing recent form and still looks capable of defying this mark. Jericoacoara is the each-way alternative at a workable price, with his latest second and solid speed figure making him appealing for the frame at least. Rauzan is the obvious danger, while Kilmore Rock is one to fear if building on his latest run rather than reverting to old habits.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Menaggio | 10/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Jericoacoara | 11/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 4/1 | 5/1 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Magic Wave | 9/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 17/2 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Jehol De Thaix | 7/2 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 10/3 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Rauzan | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 5/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 (Bet365) |
| Kilmore Rock | 15/2 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 8/1 | 10/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Heart Above | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Dollar Collar | 20/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Sky Bet) |
| Nosy Neighbour | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 7/1 | 11/2 | 7/1 (Sky Bet) |
| Starlyte | 7/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 (Bet365) |
| Secret Secret | 20/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 16/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Kieran McHugh | Jehol De Thaix |
| Ratings Hub | Jehol De Thaix |
| Garry Owen | Jericoacoara |
| RP Ratings | Kilmore Rock |
| Ian Gaughran | Rauzan |
| The Score | Heart Above |
15:00 – Royal Caledonian Hunt Handicap Chase (GBB Race)
Race Details: 2m 5f | Class 4 | Going: 6.7) (selective watering) (Good, good to soft in places (goingstick) | | jumps
This looks a proper competitive little handicap rather than a race full of dead wood, and there are cases to be made for plenty of them. Looking Splendid arrives in winning form and still looks fairly treated despite nudging up to a mark of 131, while Joecooker has been knocking on the door often enough to make him a major player if things fall right. Old Gregorian is respected for a yard that knows how to place one around here, and Carrigeen Castle is dangerously weighted if building on his recent second. Special Rate and Breizh River are solid, dependable types, but this may come down to which horse is best handicapped rather than simply best. It is a tricky puzzle, though not an impossible one.
Top Selections
1. Looking Splendid – 4/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Dylan Johnston | Trainer: Gary Rutherford | Form: -11361 | Rating: 131 | Topspeed: 109
He is the one I keep coming back to. Looking Splendid has won three of his last five starts and, crucially, arrives here after proving he can capitalise when getting his conditions. He carries only 154 despite the joint-highest rating in the field, which immediately makes him appealing in a race where several rivals are lumping much more weight. The recent win suggests he is still progressing rather than merely holding his form, and this intermediate trip around Kelso should suit a horse who looks straightforward and well treated. At 4/1, he is short enough in a competitive race but still makes plenty of appeal as the likeliest winner.
Bet: WIN
2. Carrigeen Castle – 6/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Conor O’Farrell | Trainer: Micky Hammond | Form: -7F482 | Rating: 130 | Topspeed: 99
There is enough in his recent profile to suggest he is ready to strike, and 6/1 makes him the each-way angle in a race of this shape. Carrigeen Castle returned to something like his best when runner-up last time, and that was a more encouraging effort than the bare form figures earlier in the campaign suggest. He has the same low weight as the selection, yet is rated 130, so he is hardly thrown in badly, and this sort of test can bring his stamina and toughness into play. He is a 10-year-old now, so you would not want to call him progressive, but he looks solid enough to be in the first three if backing up that latest run.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Looking Splendid is the win play because he arrives in the best current form and is very well positioned at the weights for a horse rated 131. Carrigeen Castle makes more appeal as the each-way punt at 6/1 in a nine-runner race with three places on offer. Joecooker and Old Gregorian look the main dangers if the market leaders underperform.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Gregorian | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 (Betfair) |
| Special Rate | 15/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 (William Hill) |
| Breizh River | 5/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Jet Legs | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Garde Des Champs | 11/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 8/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Joecooker | 9/2 | 18/5 | 4/1 | 7/2 | 4/1 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Looking Splendid | 4/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 7/2 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Carrigeen Castle | 6/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 (Bet365) |
| Kay Tara Tara | 11/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Lee Sobot | Looking Splendid |
| Jason Heavey | Looking Splendid |
| Rockavon | Looking Splendid |
| Sunday Express | Looking Splendid |
| Steve Mullington | Carrigeen Castle |
15:30 – Reg And Betty Tweedie Handicap Chase (GBB Race)
Race Details: 2m 7f | Class 3 | Going: 6.7) (selective watering) (Good, good to soft in places (goingstick) | | jumps
This looks a compact but quite interesting handicap chase rather than an especially deep one, with the market understandably latching on to Wolfburg after his recent upward curve. He arrives here as the obvious progressive in the field, gets in off 136 and is well treated on the weights against older, more exposed rivals. The danger is that several of these have become hard to trust: Cadell’s profile is messy, Erne River is 11 now, and Walk On Quest arrives after a pulled-up effort. Dare To Shout has bits of solid form and Hudson De Grugy is capable on his day, while Red Happy returns after a break on the back of a hat-trick. Still, this looks the sort of race where momentum and a workable mark could prove decisive.
Top Selections
1. Wolfburg – 5/4 with Betfair
Jockey: Patrick Wadge | Trainer: Sandy Thomson | Form: P71321 | Rating: 136 | Topspeed: 113
Wolfburg is the one with the clearest sense of progression and, in a race full of ifs and buts, that counts for plenty. He backed up a good second with a win last time and still looks like a 7yo going the right way over fences. Carrying 146 in this grade is a major plus when several of his rivals are lumping much more weight, and this trip should suit given the way he has been finishing his races. Sandy Thomson’s runner is hardly a hidden one at 5/4, but he is hard to oppose because he has the profile of a horse who may not have stopped improving yet. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Red Happy – 10/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Jonathon Bewley | Trainer: George Bewley | Form: 7P111- | Rating: 139 | Topspeed: 102
Red Happy is the each-way angle in a race where plenty have questions to answer. He signed off last season with a hat-trick, which immediately makes him more appealing than some of the out-of-form types above him in the weights, and he is another who gets to race off a sensible burden here with 156. There is an absence to overcome, so he does come with a fitness caveat, but 10/1 feels fair compensation if he is ready enough to do himself justice. In a seven-runner race with three places on offer, he looks the value alternative to the favourite and could easily outrun his price. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Wolfburg is the straightforward win play and makes most appeal as the progressive, well-weighted runner in the field. For an each-way punt, Red Happy stands out at the bigger price, especially with three places on offer in a seven-runner race. Dare To Shout is respected as a danger, while Hudson De Grugy has enough ability to get involved if bouncing back.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cadell | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Erne River | 11/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Hudson De Grugy | NR | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | — | 7/1 (Betfair) |
| Dare To Shout | 7/1 | 5/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 7/1 (Bet365) |
| Red Happy | 10/1 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 17/2 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Walk On Quest | 5/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 11/2 | 13/2 (Betfair) |
| Wolfburg | 5/6 | 5/4 | 5/4 | 5/4 | 4/5 | 5/4 (Betfair) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Mercury | Wolfburg |
| Jim Delahunt | Wolfburg |
| Whistler | Wolfburg |
| Sam Hardy | Wolfburg |
16:00 – Scottish Racing Academy Handicap Hurdle (Div I)
Race Details: 2m 2f | Class 5 | Going: 6.7) (selective watering) (Good, good to soft in places (goingstick) | | jumps
This looks a proper low-grade Kelso handicap where the market may not have everything its own way. Big Love is the obvious one at the head of affairs, carrying just 10st 3lb and bringing the best of the recent profile despite still being a maiden over hurdles. The Best Way returns off a winning mark after a break and is respected, while Gonnino has been knocking on the door and should give another honest account. Struth is the interesting one now handicapping after three qualifying runs and could have more to offer than his bare form suggests. Alvesta keeps running her race without getting her head in front, so this feels competitive rather than strong, and it may be decided by who is best treated rather than who has achieved the most.
Top Selections
1. Struth – 6/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Derek Fox | Trainer: Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore | Form: 405 | Rating: 101 | Topspeed: 79
Struth is the one I want to be with now switched into handicap company. His three runs in novice events do not scream winner at first glance, but they came in stronger races than this and there was enough promise there to think an opening mark of 101 could be workable. Derek Fox is a positive booking for a yard that knows exactly how to place one at this sort of level, and this race does not look deep. At 6/1, he appeals as the runner with the most scope to step forward rather than one already fully exposed. Bet type tag: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Alvesta – 12/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Jonathon Bewley | Trainer: George Bewley | Form: 443444 | Rating: 107 | Topspeed: 93
Alvesta is not especially hard to predict: she turns up, runs to a similar level and usually gives backers a sight. That can be frustrating from a win perspective, but in an 11-runner Class 5 handicap those traits make plenty of each-way appeal. Her string of solid efforts suggests she is holding her form well, and a rating of 107 puts her right in the argument if this becomes a test of consistency rather than raw upside. The 12/1 on offer looks a bit dismissive for a mare who should travel and jump well enough to be involved again. Bet type tag: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Struth is the win play because he is the unexposed one in a race full of exposed handicappers and could improve sharply for this switch in class and company. Alvesta makes more sense as the each-way punt at double-figure odds given how regularly she hits the frame. Big Love is the obvious danger, while Gonnino and The Best Way also have claims if producing their better efforts.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highly Recommended | 66/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 80/1 (Betfair) |
| Parisian Fashion | 8/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 (Bet365) |
| Struth | 11/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Interchangeable | 16/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Gonnino | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 (Paddy Power) |
| The Best Way | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 10/3 | 7/2 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Ozzy Cosmo | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Gozo | 16/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Alvesta | 12/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 8/1 | 10/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Ellistrin Bay | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Betfair) |
| Big Love | 5/2 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 9/4 | 5/2 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Rob Wright | Big Love |
| Ben Morgan | Struth |
| sportinglife.com | Struth |
16:30 – Scottish Racing Academy Handicap Hurdle (Div II)
Race Details: 2m 2f | Class 5 | Going: 6.7) (selective watering) (Good, good to soft in places (goingstick) | | jumps
This looks a fairly ordinary Class 5 on paper, but it is not short on angles. Rememberthename brings the most solid recent profile after a string of consistent efforts and is the obvious starting point, while Fine Point and Ms Cindy Kate are the pair lurking with a bit more upside off workable marks. Newport also has a race in him at this level and his latest second puts him right in the argument, though he is not exactly bombproof. At the other end, several arrive with patchy or disappointing recent form, so this may not take a world-beater to win. In a race like that, reliability counts for plenty, but there is enough lurking potential among the younger types to make this a slightly trickier puzzle than it first appears.
Top Selections
1. Rememberthename – 3/1 with Betfair
Jockey: Patrick Wadge | Trainer: Sandy Thomson | Form: 235732 | Rating: 107 | Topspeed: 88
He is hardly hiding from the handicapper, but this six-year-old is the one arriving in proper nick and that matters in a race where plenty have questions to answer. His recent form figures tell the story: competitive, consistent and knocking on the door. A mark of 107 asks a fair bit, yet he has been running well enough to suggest he can win one of these before long. Patrick Wadge knows the yard well and this looks the type of race Sandy Thomson will have targeted rather than stumbled into. At 3/1 he is no giveaway, but he is the most trustworthy option in a field lacking depth. Bet: WIN
2. Ms Cindy Kate – 7/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Danny McMenamin | Trainer: Nicky Richards | Form: 5844 | Rating: 99 | Topspeed: 84
She has yet to win over hurdles, but there is enough in those four runs to think a modest handicap like this could be the making of her. The bare form figures do not leap off the page, though a mark of 99 gives her room to manoeuvre and she is with a trainer who can place one to advantage around Kelso. Danny McMenamin is a positive booking and the fact she is one of the least exposed runners in the line-up is a major plus. At 7/2 she is not a hidden secret, but she still makes each-way appeal because there should be more to come than from several exposed rivals. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Rememberthename is the percentage call for the win bet because he brings the most dependable recent form and should go close again if repeating it. Ms Cindy Kate is the each-way play in a race where unexposed profiles are worth siding with. Newport and Fine Point are the obvious dangers if building on their latest efforts, but the former is a little less convincing under pressure.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hunters Spring | 9/1 | 17/2 | 9/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Rememberthename | 11/4 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 11/4 | 3/1 (Betfair) |
| Lester Mail | 6/1 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 (Bet365) |
| Newport | 6/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 (Bet365) |
| Barrakilla Vage | 28/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Betfair) |
| Fine Point | 7/2 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 7/2 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Miss Friday Lions | 18/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Ms Cindy Kate | 7/2 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 3/1 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Chosen Hero | 40/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Glenridding | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
17:00 – Church House Investments Buccleuch Cup (A Maiden Hunters’ Chase) (Corinthian Spirit Qualifier)
Race Details: 2m 7f | Class 4 | Going: 6.7) (selective watering) (Good, good to soft in places (goingstick) | | jumps
This does not look a deep maiden hunters’ chase and, on paper at least, the market has every right to revolve around Boley Bob. He is a short-priced favourite in a field where several have achieved very little under Rules, while others arrive with patchy or modest recent form. Theoldboggroad at least has a placed effort on the board and makes more appeal than most of the bigger prices, while Phantoms Cave is the other one the betting expects to put up a fight. Amma Lord and High On The Hill have bits and pieces of form but both come with obvious questions, and the rest need major improvement. In truth, this looks less a strong race than a thin one likely decided by who handles the occasion and jumps cleanly.
Top Selections
1. Boley Bob – 4/9 with Bet365
Jockey: Mr Henry Crow | Trainer: J J O’Shea | Form: | Rating: | Topspeed:
You do not need to get too clever in a race like this. Boley Bob is a prohibitively short price, but that makes perfect sense given the lack of depth around him and the confidence behind him in the market. In these maiden hunters’ chases, one runner with the right profile can simply tower over exposed or limited opposition, and he looks that horse here. Mr Henry Crow is a positive booking and, if Boley Bob jumps with fluency, he should be able to control matters against rivals who have far more to prove. At 4/9 he is no hidden gem, but he is still very hard to oppose in this company. Bet type: win bet.
Bet: WIN
2. Theoldboggroad – 12/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Mr James Innes | Trainer: Nick Orpwood | Form: 3- | Rating: 81 | Topspeed: 69
If you want something at a price to run into the frame, Theoldboggroad makes more appeal than most. That 3- is hardly flashy, but in a race where plenty of these have shown either little or nothing, a recent placed effort at least gives him a platform. An 81 rating and 69 topspeed do not scream well-handicapped improver, yet they are enough to suggest he can be competitive in this modest setting if taking to hunters’ company. James Innes rides and this seven-year-old does not have the exposed, regressive feel of one or two others in here. Available at 12/1 with Bet365, he looks the sensible each-way play behind the obvious favourite. Bet type: each-way.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Boley Bob is the straight win play and, frankly, the one horse in the race with the least explaining away to do. For an each-way angle in an eight-runner field with three places on offer, Theoldboggroad looks the value option. Phantoms Cave is the obvious danger if the market has him right, but the favourite should take plenty of stopping.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amma Lord | 25/1 | 18/1 | 22/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Bentley Road | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Boley Bob | 4/9 | 2/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 | 4/9 | 4/9 (Bet365) |
| Flying Skipper | 33/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 (Betfair) |
| Phantoms Cave | 9/2 | 18/5 | 4/1 | 7/2 | 4/1 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| The Back Braes | 18/1 | 35/1 | 35/1 | 33/1 | 20/1 | 35/1 (Betfair) |
| Theoldboggroad | 12/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 9/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| High On The Hill | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Luke Tucker | Boley Bob |
| Glendale | Boley Bob |
17:35 – Racing TV Open National Hunt Flat Race (Category 1 Elimination) (GBB Race)
Race Details: 2m | Class 4 | Going: 6.7) (selective watering) (Good, good to soft in places (goingstick) | | jumps
This six-runner bumper is small in numbers but not lacking in interest, with three or four bringing solid early promise. Dilrisk sets the standard on figures despite only finishing fourth on debut, while Midday Rendezvous already has a win on the board and comes here with the benefit of knowing how to get the job done. Cape Warrior is the unexposed one with age allowance on his side after a runner-up effort first time, and he could easily step forward again. Eagle Warrior also has a fair opening run to build on, but the market suggests this is mainly between the front three. In a race where experience and professionalism should count plenty, it looks a useful enough little contest rather than a giveaway.
Top Selections
1. Dilrisk – 6/4 with Bet365
Jockey: Danny McMenamin | Trainer: Nicky Richards | Form: 4 | Rating: 107 | Topspeed: 94
There is a fair chance Dilrisk is better than the bare result of that debut fourth. He still comes here with the best rating in the field, a healthy Topspeed figure of 94 and the sort of profile you expect to sharpen up plenty for the experience. Nicky Richards does very well with this type around the north, and Kelso is hardly unfamiliar territory for the yard. In a race lacking depth beyond the obvious contenders, he looks the one most likely to take a proper step forward. At 6/4 he is not a gift, but he does set the standard and is the most solid win proposition.
Bet: WIN
2. Cape Warrior – 9/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Joshua Thompson | Trainer: Micky Hammond | Form: 2 | Rating: 106 | Topspeed:
Cape Warrior is the each-way alternative because his debut second immediately gives him a likeable shape for a race like this, and as a 4yo he gets in with just 149. That weight pull could be useful if this turns into a proper test from some way out. His opening rating of 106 says he is already in the mix with the principals, and there is every reason to think he can progress from that first run. Micky Hammond’s youngster doesn’t need to improve dramatically to hit the frame again, and available at 9/2 he makes more appeal as the value play than some of the shorter ones.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Dilrisk is the percentage call and makes most appeal as the straight win bet, especially if you trust Nicky Richards to bring him on from debut. For an each-way punt in a six-runner field with two places, Cape Warrior looks the sensible alternative at the prices. Midday Rendezvous is the obvious danger after getting off the mark already, while Eagle Warrior may need a bit more improvement than the market leaders.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midday Rendezvous | 5/2 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 5/2 (Bet365) |
| Dilrisk | 6/4 | 6/4 | 6/4 | 6/4 | 6/4 | 6/4 (Bet365) |
| Eagle Warrior | 7/2 | 18/5 | 4/1 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 4/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Yorgunnarock | 22/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Teescomponents Gal | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
| Cape Warrior | 9/2 | 3/1 | 16/5 | 3/1 | 4/1 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| The North | Dilrisk |
Kelso Course Specialists
Horses To Note
The top course performers among today’s runners:
| Horse | Runs | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walk On Quest | 4 | 2 | 50% | 75% |
| Special Rate | 4 | 2 | 50% | 50% |
| Old Gregorian | 5 | 2 | 40% | 80% |
| Cadell | 9 | 3 | 33.33% | 88.89% |
| Kilmore Rock | 3 | 1 | 33.33% | 100% |
Jockeys To Note
The pilots with the strongest records at the course:
| Jockey | Rides | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| James Bowen | 14 | 5 | 35.71% | 57.14% |
| Jack Power | 23 | 5 | 21.74% | 60.87% |
| Derek Fox | 217 | 41 | 18.89% | 48.85% |
| Gavin Sheehan | 32 | 6 | 18.75% | 59.38% |
| Miss J Walton | 32 | 6 | 18.75% | 50% |
Trainers To Note
Yards that have done well at Kelso:
| Trainer | Runners | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero | 32 | 9 | 28.13% | 56.25% |
| Ann Hamilton | 43 | 11 | 25.58% | 37.21% |
| Patrick Griffin | 25 | 5 | 20% | 48% |
| Jennie Candlish | 43 | 8 | 18.6% | 53.49% |
| Tristan Davidson | 29 | 5 | 17.24% | 34.48% |
Summary & Best Bets
That wraps up our Kelso racing tips for Monday 20th April 2026. We’ve covered all 8 races with our top selections highlighted above. Use the betting strategies as a starting point, always shop around for the best odds, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
FAQ
What time does racing start at Kelso today?
The first race at Kelso on Monday 20th April 2026 goes off at 14:00, with 8 races scheduled in total.
What is the going at Kelso today?
The going at Kelso is reported as 6.7) (selective watering) (Good, good to soft in places (goingstick).
How many races are at Kelso today?
There are 8 races on the card at Kelso today, running from 14:00 through to 17:35.
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